Page:British Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fresh-water Fishes.djvu/111

MINNOW Those were thrice-happy days when, with rod and line, I stole out of the old home at daybreak, and was by the water's edge before the sun had dispelled the dew from the lush meadows across which I expectantly meandered. The Minnow occurs in a great many of our rivers and streams, but it must have clear-running water and a good current for it to thrive to advantage. It is only a small species, rarely attaining a length of more than a few inches. What it lacks in stature, however, it makes

amends for by its pretty colouration. This shows considerable variation, though, as a rule, it is silver-grey, with a green or darker back, and a band of golden colour along the upper part of the side. In some specimens a number of dark vertical bars occur from the back downwards, and other markings may also be present. It spawns in early Summer when the male, as in the still more familiar Stickleback, puts on a red waistcoat, and there are little white tubercles on the head. The Minnow leads a follow- my-leader life, as it seems to be agreed that its movements are well-regulated, loyal response being made by the shoal to the directions given